PETALING JAYA: Kuala Lumpur has made a major jump from 84th place in 2022 to 22nd spot this year as one of the top 100 destinations for remote work, says Remote, a global human resources platform.
“Kuala Lumpur earned its position due to its robust Internet infrastructure, its natural and cultural attractions, and relatively affordable cost of living,” said Remote in a report recently.
The report also lists Madrid, Spain; Madeira, Portugal; Toronto, Canada; Auckland, New Zealand; and Tokyo, Japan, among the top 10 destinations worldwide for remote working.
Remote said Kuala Lumpur and other global cities were judged based on an in-depth analysis of factors spanning quality of life, safety, Internet infrastructure, cost of living, inflation as well as incentives for remote workers.
“Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok, ranked at 16th place, have been placed under the top five spots for remote work visas and incentives,” it added.
Other Asian cities making it into the top 100 list are Taiwan’s Taipei in eighth place and Singapore at 78th.
Remote said Malaysia is a tourism hotspot with rich cultural diversity, and an established economic superpower among Asean countries.
It also said Malaysia is a prime destination for employers looking for quality team members, and for many businesses to establish an Asian hub in Kuala Lumpur.
“For over half a century, the Malaysian economy has experienced significant economic growth, driven by gains in the mining, tourism, commerce, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing industries in particular.
“Kuala Lumpur is now home to a burgeoning tech sector with a strong base of digital talent and highly skilled professionals,” it said.
The report said the concept of remote work transitions from a necessity to a lifestyle choice as selecting the right destination has never been more critical by those who are seeking it.
“Remote updated its list with new factors reflecting this reality, including inflation and availability of a digital nomad visa, which is now offered by more than 50 countries,” it said.
Remote co-founder and chief executive officer Job van der Voort said remote work enables professionals to maintain careers wherever they feel most inspired, productive and balanced.
“This year’s list of the top global destinations for remote work reflects not just the best places to live and work remotely, but also the evolving landscape of what remote professionals need to thrive in a post-pandemic world.
“One of the most exciting aspects of distributed work is how it can enable an exchange of cultures, ideas and innovations, and enrich communities.
“We’re eager to witness the positive impact that global citizens will have on their chosen destinations,” he added.
Remote, founded in 2019, is a platform to empower employers to find and hire the best talent, and enable individuals to build financial and personal freedom.
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